I Went to the Wall

I went to the Wall because I care.
The black panels loomed tall and smooth,
reflecting my tears back to me.
I stepped back and looked at the names...
The names! Each name a memory, sorrow, and pain.
I went to the Wall and wondered;
I wondered what life could have been for you
and the others
who did not survive.
I went to the Wall to find you.
I wanted to reach out and touch your name.
I did not want to walk away.
I did not want to leave.
I just stood and stared
at your name.
I went to the Wall to bring your name home with me.
And I went to the Wall and cried.

12/31/98

I Went to the Wall has been published in